What Ryan Silverfield Said About Decision To Name KJ Jackson Razorbacks' QB1

FAYETTEVILLE — Arkansas made a long-awaited decision on Sunday when it announced that KJ Jackson will be the starting quarterback for the 2026 season.

FIrst-year head coach Ryan Silverfield took to the podium just a few minutes after Jackson was officially announced as QB1 for the Razorbacks after a lengthy battle for the job between Jackson and Memphis transfer AJ Hill.

"There were some days it was back and forth and it was true quarterback competition," Silverfield said. "Ultimately what we decided was, they both looked really good on base downs... Ultimately, it came down to the actual situational football.

Arkansas coach Ryan Silverfield looks over his football team during spring practice. | Razorback Communications

"I believe a quarterback, in order to have success, has to be really efficient in those things... We thought KJ had the slight edge in that, and I think ultimately that's going to give us the best opportunity to have success moving forward."

He continued on about the decision, detailing how it went down with his staff prior to the announcement.

"Today when the decision was made, we made sure we were thorough with the fulm and the conversations. Ultimately, it's got to be my decision. But obviously, sitting down with our offensive coordinator, our quarterback coach, talking to offensive staff and getting a feel for what we think is best moving forward."

Silverfield said that offensive coordinator Tim Cramsey was the one who informed Jackson and Hill of the news.

"It's my job to follow up with them and continue to have these conversations," Silverfield said. "We've talked about when this decision was going to be made, you can't make everybody happy. As a competitor, you always want to be named [starter]. For a young man like AJ who has such a bright future... it's 'Hey, listen, this sucks. But you've worked so hard and you're a fantastic quarterback and a great young man and you're young, so be ready, prepared, continue to prepare like you're the starter.'

Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) looks for a receiver to throw to during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

"For KJ, hey, let's go. Now it's time. You got to step up and be the full-time leader out there and make sure you're on top of everything like you have been. But the conversations are never easy. It's no different at any position, but obviously the quarterback decision is one that I think it deserves a sit-down meeting."

Jackson has completed 63.8 percent of his passes in his Arkansas career for 500 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions. He's also run for 55 yards and two scores.

Arkansas will open its season against North Alabama on Sept. 5 at 3:15 p.m. CT on the SEC Network.

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